Even though you may be dreading the replacement of your HVAC equipment, take solace in knowing that newer equipment is more energy-efficient than ever before. In fact, if you focus on the new Energy Star Most Efficient label, you'll be saving the maximum amount of energy and money for years to come.

Why an Energy Star Upgrade Was Essential

Why did Energy Star change its label? Was it not good enough?

Not at all. In fact, Energy Star seems to have been too good. The energy efficiency requirements set back in 1992 and the notoriety of meeting those requirements sparked competition amongst manufacturers. Everyone wanted to gain the prestige garnered by the Energy Star label. This helped usher in a new era of energy efficiency, but it also ensured that more companies were able to meet the minimums.

With so many products now adorned with the label, consumers started having a more difficult time discerning the best, most efficient units. Thus, the Energy Star Most Efficient label was created, which can only be achieved if stricter requirements are met.

The Changes of the Most Efficient Label

One important change of the new label is the fact that manufacturers can no longer conduct the testing for Energy Star placement themselves. To reach Most Efficient status, testing must be done by a third party.

The other changes are specific to the requirements of certain equipment. Central air conditioners, for example, must meet higher levels of SEER, EER, HSPF and/or COP performance levels. Plus, central A/C units and certain types of heat pumps are required to have communications and status functionalities, among other requirements.

To see a full list of the requirements needed for individual types of equipment, check out the 2014 Most Efficient list on the Energy Star website.

For more expert advice on upgrading your HVAC equipment by looking for the Energy Star Most Efficient label or other home comfort questions, contact the professionals at Tri-County Heating & Cooling. We've been serving the needs of Cincinnati and the surrounding areas for over 40 years.